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HTML to PDF Converter: Best Free Online Tools Compared 2025

By HTML Viewer Pro Team•December 29, 2025•14 min read

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Why Convert HTML to PDF?

PDFs are the universal document format - they display identically on every device, can't be easily edited, and are perfect for sharing finalized content. Converting HTML to PDF is essential for creating invoices, reports, certificates, documentation, and any content you need to preserve exactly as designed.

But not all HTML-to-PDF converters are created equal. Some butcher your CSS, others fail on complex layouts, and many leave watermarks or charge steep fees. We've tested 15 different conversion tools to find the best free options.

Top 5 HTML to PDF Converters

1. HTML Viewer Pro (Browser Print)

Best for Quick Conversion

Our tool uses your browser's native print-to-PDF function, which means perfect CSS support and zero server uploads. Your HTML never leaves your computer.

Pros:

  • 100% client-side (private)
  • Perfect CSS rendering
  • No file size limits
  • Free forever, no watermarks
  • Works offline after first load

Cons:

  • Requires manual print dialog
  • No automation/API

2. wkhtmltopdf

Best for Developers

Command-line tool using WebKit rendering engine. Industry standard for server-side PDF generation, used by countless web applications.

Pros:

  • Excellent CSS support
  • Scriptable/automatable
  • Free and open source
  • Handles JavaScript

Cons:

  • Requires installation
  • Learning curve for CLI
  • Not actively maintained

3. Puppeteer (Headless Chrome)

Google's Node.js library for controlling headless Chrome. Generates PDFs exactly as Chrome would render them, with full modern web features support.

Pros:

  • Perfect rendering accuracy
  • Full JavaScript support
  • Actively maintained by Google
  • Programmatic control

Cons:

  • Requires Node.js knowledge
  • Heavy resource usage
  • Not for non-developers

4. Sejda HTML to PDF

Web-based converter with a clean interface. Good for occasional conversions when you don't want to install software.

Pros:

  • No installation required
  • Simple interface
  • Batch processing

Cons:

  • File uploads (privacy concern)
  • Daily limits on free tier
  • Mediocre CSS support

5. PDFShift API

Premium API service with generous free tier. Excellent for production applications needing reliable PDF generation.

Pros:

  • Reliable infrastructure
  • Great documentation
  • Modern CSS support

Cons:

  • Costs money after free tier
  • Requires API integration

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How to Convert HTML to PDF with HTML Viewer Pro

Step 1: Paste Your HTML

Open HTML Viewer Pro and paste your HTML code into the editor. The preview pane will show how it renders.

Step 2: Review Preview

Check the preview pane to ensure everything looks correct. Make any necessary adjustments to your HTML/CSS.

Step 3: Click PDF Button

Click the "HTML to PDF" button in the toolbar. Your browser's print dialog will open.

Step 4: Save as PDF

In the print dialog, select "Save as PDF" as the destination, adjust settings if needed, and click Save.

Tips for Better HTML to PDF Conversion

1. Use Print-Specific CSS

Add @media print rules to optimize your HTML for PDF output:

@media print {
  body { margin: 0; }
  .no-print { display: none; }
  a { text-decoration: none; color: #000; }
}

2. Set Page Size

Use CSS @page rule to control PDF page dimensions and margins.

3. Avoid Background Graphics

Many PDF converters skip background images by default. Use inline images for critical visuals.

4. Test Before Production

Always generate a test PDF before deploying HTML-to-PDF functionality. Different converters handle edge cases differently.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best free HTML to PDF converter?

For quick conversions, HTML Viewer Pro (browser print) offers perfect CSS support and complete privacy. For programmatic conversion, Puppeteer provides the best quality. For simple online conversion without installation, Sejda works well.

Can I convert HTML to PDF without uploading files?

Yes! HTML Viewer Pro processes everything client-side in your browser. Your HTML never gets uploaded to any server. Desktop tools like wkhtmltopdf and Puppeteer also work offline.

Why does my CSS look different in the PDF?

PDF converters vary in CSS support. Some don't handle flexbox or grid properly. Use print-specific CSS, test thoroughly, and consider using simpler layouts for PDF-destined content.

Can I automate HTML to PDF conversion?

Yes, use Puppeteer (Node.js), wkhtmltopdf (command-line), or PDF generation APIs like PDFShift. These tools integrate into automated workflows and server-side applications.

Do online HTML to PDF converters add watermarks?

Some free online converters add watermarks or limit features. HTML Viewer Pro's print function never adds watermarks. Always check the converter's terms before use, especially for commercial projects.

Tool comparisons based on testing conducted December 2025. Features and pricing subject to change. Test converters with your specific use case before committing.